Things to do and see in Ripon

November 17, 2017

Ripon is known as a Cathedral City in the Borough of Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Ripon's ancient charms and thousand year traditions will delight you. Inside the City, walls enjoy the independent shops and cafes & restaurants we talk about a little later before you venture to our must-see locations and attractions, all of which have a role to play in forming England's history.

1. Ripon Cathedral

The history of the ancient church dates back to the 7th Century and although the Cathedral is still an active, living Church, those who wish to visit and explore the history that lies there are welcomed. The medieval building which stands today is on the site of the stone church built during the 7th Century, and beneath the crossing lies the original crypt, where an unbroken tradition of worship continues to this day. Another interesting feature that lies in the Cathedral is the medieval woodcarvings that decorate the choir stalls, which are believed to have inspired the works of Lewis Carroll. You will find Guides on duty daily between 10am – 4pm who will be happy to answer your questions and help you learn more about the Cathedral.

2. Newby Hall & Gardens

You will come across many delights in the house including an exceptional Tapestry Room, a Gallery of Statuary, the charming Billiards Room and a wonderful Library. The house was built in the 1690’s in the style of Sir Christopher Wren and was later enlarged and adapted by John Carr, and subsequently Robert Adam. What shines most, some might say is the 25 acres of award-winning gardens which are full of rare and beautiful plants. If you’re having a family fun day out, the kids will enjoy the Adventure Playground, Miniature Railway, Dollshouse Exhibition and The Bear House! There’s a really lovely shop at Newby Hall dedicated to modern art, design and creativity where you will find a broad range of products including cards and stationery, books, toys and home accessories featuring brands like Elmer, Noddy and the Mister Men.

3. Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal

The dramatic Abbey ruins you will find are the largest monastic ruins in the country. It was originally founded in 1132 by 13 Benedictine Monks from St Mary’s in York, they sought out a simpler way of life and this is what awaited them at Fountains. In 1539, during the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the Monks were sent away and Fountains Abbey was sold by the Crown to a merchant and it remained in private hands until the 1960’s. Come 1983, the estate was bought by The National Trust and is open year-round to be explored and stories of the past to be learnt. Studley Royal Water Garden sits within the same secluded valley and is an outstanding example of the ‘English’ garden style that swept across Europe in the 18th Century. Amazingly, the garden you will see is little changed from the one that impressed visitors 200 years ago and in 1986 was recognised as a site of cultural importance and granted World Heritage status.

4. The Yorkshire Law & Order Museums

Workhouse Museum, Prison & Police Museum, Courthouse Museum

Together, these three museums tell a story of interwoven Law & Order in times past – Three great Museums, one great day out! A trip to the Workhouse Museum reveals the history of what life was like for the not so fortunate. You’ll start in the original Gatehouse building which contained the Guardian’s Room, Bathing area, Vagrants cells and Receiving Ward for inmates and then work your way through to see the Master’s study, classroom and inmates dining hall too.

Wait for your sentence standing at the dock at the Courthouse Museum and learn about what exactly happened in the courtrooms in the 1800’s. Despite remaining virtually unchanged since it was built in 1830, the permanent display offers an illustrated history of the use of the Courthouse, suitable for all ages. The museum consists of 3 rooms: the Jury Room, Justices’ Retiring Room and of course, the Court Room where you will witness the place that men and women were fined, sentenced to hard labour and transported to Australia. There is also a visual presentation giving examples of real-life cases.

Relive the harsh conditions of inmates at the Prison & Police Museum. Imagine the horror of being set in the pillory, strapped in a restraint chair or hung in chains. Although, a sombre scene upon your arrival being greeted by an old-fashioned Constable, you will become immersed in a full prison-life experience as you are greeted by unfortunate individuals incarcerated by several means.

Places to eat & drink in Ripon

1. The Old Deanery Restaurant

Located right in the heart of Ripon, The Old Deanery building dates back to 1625 and is Grade II Red Star listed which sits in the shadow of the wonderful Ripon Cathedral we mentioned earlier. If you’re looking for something relaxed then have a bite to eat in the bar, or head into the restaurant for a dining delight. The team of chefs is small however you are sure in for only the freshest and local ingredients to be used in their dishes. With regular TripAdvisor certificate of excellence awards regularly received, this is a great place for a quick snack or fine dining.

2.Lockwoods

Winner of Waitrose Good Food Guide Restaurant of the Year 2016, Lockwoods is perfect for the whole family. They offer food morning, noon and night with plenty of variety including a relaxed brunch menu with firm favourites likes eggs benedict and a full English and tea time treats including cakes and sandwiches. In the evening Lockwoods transforms into an intimate but relaxed neighbourhood restaurant, but one thing is for sure, that the entire family will enjoy and be comfortable here as they have a high focus on providing quality service.

3. One Eyed Rat

If you’re a lover of a good old-fashioned, rural pub then this is the place for you. The One Eyed Rat is an award-winning real ale pub, famous for its traditional charm. There’s no food served here, it just houses great beer along with a lovely atmosphere. They boast an exceptional selection of ales, continental beers, fine wine, fruit wine and mulled wine and have been found in the ‘Good Beer Guide’ for the last 10 years. In the winter, cosy by the log fire and in the warmer months, enjoy a nice cold brew in the beer garden.

4. Oliver’s Pantry

A lovely quirky café located just off the market square in Ripon who pride themselves in providing the freshest, quality coffee around. You’ll find your expected coffee house drinks along with some wonderful speciality teas including Smokey Russian Caravan & Gunpowder… weren’t expecting that were you! There’s plenty of delectable goodies on the menu from breakfast options, mains like roasted vegetable ciabatta and linguini and sweet treats including macaroons, brownies and waffles – all of which are really reasonably priced.

5. The Jolly Fryer

Now, even when you’re not by the seaside, there’s something about a traditional fish & chips which is just irresistible, and that’s what you’ll find at The Jolly Fryer. Established for over 26 years, the family-run business has done exceedingly well at providing high-quality service and food at affordable prices. They offer a take-out service as well as a cosy restaurant if you’d prefer to stay and they have a particular emphasis on making sure families feel welcome with their kid's menu.